AT&T – BellSouth Merger Cleared by Department of Justice

The United States Department of Justice today cleared AT&T’s merger with BellSouth. The following statement should be attributed to AT&T General Counsel James D. Ellis:

“This unequivocal and unconditional approval underscores the competitive nature of our industry and the pro-competitive benefits of this merger. AT&T is focused on bringing more video choices and next-generation broadband services to as many consumers as possible and our merger with BellSouth will help deliver these benefits to more consumers, more quickly”.“We commend the DOJ and its staff for conducting a professional, timely and thorough analysis. Today’s communications marketplace is marked by numerous competing wireless and wireline networks, producing benefits for consumers, business customers and the economy.”

“We look forward to the Federal Communications Commission’s prompt approval of the merger so we can quickly begin delivering the benefits of innovative new services and increased competition to consumers.”

And the response of BellSouth to the Department of Justice:

“We are pleased that the Department of Justice has approved the merger between BellSouth and AT&T. We look forward to getting approval from the Federal Communications Commission in the very near future.

“This merger will create a communications industry leader capable of providing customers across the BellSouth region with the latest in wireline, wireless, broadband and video technologies and innovation.”